BBC unveils new teen soap 'The Cut'

BBC Switch has announced that it has gone into production on a new teen soap.

The Cut will air as five-minute episodes on the BBC website, with a weekly TV omnibus arriving on BBC Two later in the year.

"This series reflects the way many young people want to consume content," said BBC Switch head Geoffrey Goodwin. "We've united top British writing talent with the freshest and newest interactive ideas to make appointment to view content for soap loving British teens."

He added: "The story is fast-paced and relevant to young audiences, with secret crushes, family dramas and plenty of intrigue. The writing is quick, witty, and knowing, rich with pop culture references and with storylines suggested by teens themselves."

The show has been developed by EastEnders writer Al Smith and director Sarah Walker, whose credits include Hollyoaks.

Last year, BBC Three announced that it was developing a Hollyoaks rival.